Targeting skin aging: anti-senescent potential and key enzyme modulation of Lavandula essential oils

Introduction Skin aging is an inherent biological process linked to chronological aging that can be accelerated by external factors. Cellular senescence and skin enzymes are crucial players in this process and, therefore, relevant preventive and therapeutic targets. In this scenario, aromatic plants and their essential oils have gained attention as promising agents in the management of skin aging. The present study aims to explore the anti-senescent potential of Lavandula stoechas subsp. luisieri and Lavandula pedunculata essential oils on skin fibroblasts and their effect on relevant enzymes, given their anti-inflammatory effects. Methods The chemical characterization of the essential oils was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and their effect evaluated on etoposide-induced senescent fibroblasts during the recovery phase. Relevant markers of cellular senescence were analyzed, namely, β-galactosidase activity through a colorimetric assay, nuclear alterations by immunofluorescence, SASP secretion through ELISA, expression levels of cell cycle inhibitors by WB analysis and ultrastructural alterations using transmission electron microscopy. Modulation of key enzyme activity was determined using an in chemico approach. Results The essential oil of L. pedunculata was characterized by high amounts of fenchone and camphor whereas that of L. stoechas subsp. luisieri showed a very peculiar chemical profile rich in rare necrodane derivatives and lavandulyl acetate. Both essential oils were effective in decreasing most of the senescence markers but L. stoechas subsp. luisieri strikingly attained significant effects at very low concentrations (6.25 μg/mL). Conclusion These results highlight the potential of L. stoechas subsp. luisieri to mitigate cellular senescence and delay skin aging, thereby contributing to the valorization of this underexplored species in cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical applications.